The momentum shifted dramatically on day two of the four-day clash between Australia A and New Zealand A at Allan Border Field in Brisbane. New Zealand’s Scott Kuggeleijn’s impressive five-wicket haul and their top-order’s robust batting performance put them ahead by 75 runs at the close of play.
After starting at 3-141, just six runs behind New Zealand A’s first-innings total of 147, the hosts suffered a setback, losing 4-50 and relinquishing the dominance they had showcased on day one. As the day progressed, the situation worsened for the Australians as New Zealand A surged to 2-191 from 42 overs by the end of the day.
The day commenced with Caleb Jewell, who had been in solid form on day one, continuing his fine batting display. Unfortunately, his aggressive approach cost him his wicket, falling to paceman Brett Randell after adding a mere nine runs to his overnight score.
Replacing Jewell was Queensland’s keeper-batter Jimmy Peirson, who picked up where his predecessor left off, playing a flurry of boundaries and driving the run rate forward. However, Peirson’s aggressive stance led to his dismissal when he edged a delivery from medium pacer Sean Solia, which was caught expertly by Ajaz Patel at first slip.
Despite Peirson’s departure, Australia A managed to post a total of 263 before being bowled out after lunch. In response, New Zealand A swiftly erased the deficit, with Solia and Nick Kelly leading the charge. The pair exhibited a mix of careful play and aggressive boundary-hitting, forming the largest partnership of the match.
The New Zealanders continued to capitalize on the favorable conditions, with Tom Bruce joining Solia to further bolster their score. Bruce quickly settled in, helping his team surpass the 150-run mark. Solia reached his half-century with a reverse sweep off spinner Mitchell Swepson.
As the day concluded, New Zealand A’s captain Tom Bruce remained unbeaten on 42, and Solia was not out on 62. The second four-day match between these two sides is scheduled for September 4 in Mackay, with South Australia’s Wes Agar ruled out due to lower back soreness. Jordan Buckingham will have another chance to make an impact in his absence.
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By- Sahiba Suri